I test coffee makers for a living, and these are the 3 best espresso machines I've used this year

If you're shopping for an espresso machine, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. How can you be sure that the machine you buy will be well made and reliable? How can you be certain it will have all the brewing functions you need, but none that you're not going to use? How can you be sure that it will be easy to use and maintain?

That's where I come in. I test espresso machines for a living (lucky, I know!) and I've put together a super-short list of the best models I've used this year to save you time and effort. Whether you want something affordable and compact that you can tuck in a corner, or a premium super-automatic machine that can prepare drinks that would make a barista cry, I've got you covered. I've also provided an ...